Applying automation to external third-party plugins

If you want to apply automation to an external plugin (not a native FL Studio plugin), you won’t be able to right-click to apply automation. In order to apply automation for third-party plugins, you need to use another method.

We’re going to explore two techniques to add automation. The first approach, MultiLink to controllers, is the easiest and most intuitive. The second approach of creating an editor thumbnail is more of a legacy technique but can still be used.

Using MultiLink to controllers to add automation

There’s an easy way to add automation clips for any plugin using the MultiLink to controllers feature. The plugin doesn’t have to be a native FL Studio plugin. It can be an installed Virtual Studio Technology (VST) instrument or effect. This technique also works for adding automation for hardware controllers’ controls.

As a brief overview of how it works, you first enable...